Chapter 2031

Charlie Wade looked at the photo, his thoughts drifting back to a snowy night in Kyoto many days before. He had saved Nanako, Fitz, and Zara in the heavy snow. Sighing inwardly, he replied to Nanako, “Thank you, and Happy New Year to you as well.”

He didn't respond to her comment about the snow in Kyoto. He knew he shouldn't engage in much emotional communication with her. Initially, he'd helped her heal from the lifelong harm caused by Aurora. Now that she was healed and he'd saved her life, the matter was resolved. Further involvement would only complicate things.

Charlie was aware he couldn't fully explain his situation to the women who liked him, including Nanako. Maintaining distance was best, and a responsible course of action.

Nanako, a perceptive girl, understood his unspoken feelings from his reply. She responded, “Charlie Wade must be with his family. I won't bother you! Happy holidays again!”

Her heart ached after sending the message. Knowing it was a significant Chinese festival, she'd messaged him her well wishes. Coincidentally, she'd been in the capital with her father for the past two days, and the heavy snow in Kyoto that night instantly reminded her of the night Charlie Wade had arrived like a divine soldier. Her longing for him intensified. She’d hoped to share the snowfall with him as part of her New Year’s greeting, but he’d barely responded.

Though disheartened, Nanako understood. Charlie Wade was married; she needed to respect his distance. She put away her phone and sat alone on the courtyard steps, watching the falling snow.

Ito Yuhiko, his legs amputated, approached slowly in his electric wheelchair. The sound didn't disturb Nanako; her mind was elsewhere, lost in memory.

Seeing his daughter gazing at the snow, Ito Yuhiko sighed. He understood her feelings, recognizing her devotion to Charlie Wade. His own heart ached for her. He coughed and called out, “Nanako.”

Startled, Nanako replied, “Father, why are you out here?”

Ito Yuhiko smiled gently. “I saw you hadn’t gone inside for a while, so I came to check on you.”

Nanako hurried to say, “Let’s go back inside. It’s cold; you’ll freeze.”

“It’s alright,” Ito Yuhiko said. “Nanako, some things can’t be forced. Take things at your own pace.”

Nanako stammered, “Dad, what are you talking about? I don’t understand…”

Ito Yuhiko smiled. “Charlie Wade is a good man, exceptionally capable. A man like that is worth waiting for.”

Nanako blushed crimson.